Younger workers in Los Angeles are usually only worried about keeping their job and advancing up the ladder of responsibility in the workplace. They typically do not think about whether or not they may at some point be the victim of some sudden injury or illness that prevents them from being able to work at all. As a result, young workers who have the misfortune of actually ending up in this type of situation may be asking themselves: Can I apply for Social Security disability benefits?
The fortunate answer for young workers is “yes,” there is a possibility that they will be able to apply for SSD benefits. However, certain requirements must be met. The Social Security Administration makes it clear that even young workers can qualify for SSD benefits if they have earned the requisite number of work credits, and their disability meets the definition within federal guidelines.
The Social Security Administration estimates that approximately 25 percent of workers who are currently about 20-years-old will become disabled before they reach retirement age. This is one of the reasons that many workplaces will encourage young workers to invest in retirement or savings accounts — there is a real possibility that those funds will be needed at a later date.
Young workers should be confident about their prospects in what is now a constantly improving economy. However, if young workers suffer from a sudden injury or illness that prevents them from remaining in the workforce, it should be some comfort that they may qualify to receive SSD benefits to help meet their financial needs.
Source: palmbeachpost.com, “Social Security can help if a disability happens,” Maria Diaz, Dec. 31, 2015